The U.S. President and Air Force One may be the most well-known example of using a jet as a flying office. Nevertheless, there are thousands of others around the world who find this an efficient and cost-effective way to do business. Whether using an executive version of the Boeing 757 or the Gulfstream G150, there are thousands of actors, athletes, businessmen and other professionals who use jets to expand their options for doing business.
Using a business jet minimizes jet lag since sleeping accommodations are common interior add-ons. Separate private jet areas at airports also means less delay getting in and out of airports. Fewer security checkpoints and schedules tailored to the traveler’s needs rather than the airline’s reduces overall travel time. Take-offs and landings at smaller airports closer to the departure and arrival points also keep wasted travel time and distance to a minimum.
All that means more time for business, more relaxed travel and a more refreshed traveler ready for action at the journey’s end. Even a thirty year old Gulfstream GII can travel from Los Angeles to Paris in about 11 hours. Newer planes may not get there any faster, but many are getting there cheaper. Entry-level executive jets sell for between $3 million and $4 million. The VLJ (Very Light Jets), such as the HondaJet or the Eclipse E500 sell for as low as $1 million.
But these newer planes, thanks to advances in engine design and composite materials, have all the power and range anyone could need.
The Rolls Royce FJ44-powered single engine Century will support 6,000 lbs MTOW (Maximum Take-Off Weight). Ultra-light planes of that type could easily carry four passengers from LA to San Francisco or London to Paris.
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